Assembly Minority Leader James Tedisco (R,C,I-Schenectady-Saratoga) and his colleagues
today held their fifth annual Disability Awareness Day ceremony at the State Capitol in Albany.

"I am proud to be hosting the fifth annual Disability Awareness Day celebration,"
Tedisco said. "Every year, my conference and I set aside a day in June to honor those
who triumph over personal obstacles to achieve greatness. I am pleased to welcome my
constituent, David York, and all of the other fine individuals who made this day possible."

The group presented the "Excelsior Award for Excellence" to people from across
the state who have succeeded despite their disabilities. The award honors the extraordinary
achievements and public service of those who have overcome physical and other personal
challenges.

"Just being a part of this ceremony, where we honor people who have overcome so much
to excel in their communities, is an honor for me," said Assemblyman Tom McKevitt
(R,C,I-East Meadow), Ranking Minority member on the Assembly Mental Health Committee.
"It is gratifying to me to see so many wonderful honorees here in Albany today. Disability
Awareness Day has become a great Assembly Minority tradition, and I hope it continues far
into the future."

"Raising awareness about disabilities has always been important to me," said
Assemblyman Marc W. Butler (R,C,I-Newport). "That is why I have brought the
Herkimer Area Resource Center Chorus to Albany today. This group, which has performed
throughout the Mohawk Valley, embodies the spirit, enthusiasm and dedication that so many
of our honorees here also exhibit."